Corrections Officer
A Corrections Officer is responsible for overseeing individuals who have been arrested and are awaiting trial, as well as those who have been sentenced to serve time in jail or prison.
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Sample Job Descriptions for Corrections Officer
Below are the some sample job descriptions for the different experience levels, where you can find the summary of the role, required skills, qualifications, and responsibilities.
Junior (0-2 years of experience)
Summary of the Role
An entry-level Corrections Officer position responsible for maintaining security, overseeing the conduct of inmates, and enforcing rules and regulations within a correctional facility. The role requires vigilance, respect for the law, and a commitment to maintaining a safe and orderly environment.
Required Skills
- Strong interpersonal communication skills
- Ability to act quickly and effectively in high-stress situations
- Keen observation skills
- Basic knowledge of criminal justice and correctional systems
- Conflict resolution and problem-solving abilities
- Proficient in self-defense and restraining techniques
- Ability to adhere strictly to rules and regulations
Qualifications
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Ability to pass a background check and drug screening
- Physical fitness to respond to emergencies and confrontations
- No history of criminal activity
- Willingness to work various shifts, including nights, weekends, and holidays
Responsibilities
- Monitor inmate behavior to prevent crime, escape attempts and other dangerous activities
- Maintain facility security through regular inspections and searches of inmates and their living quarters
- Enforce rules and regulations of the facility and report any violations
- Assist in the rehabilitation of offenders
- Respond to emergencies and confrontations within the facility
- Process new inmates including searching, fingerprinting, and documenting
- Escort inmates to and from cells, medical appointments, and other locations
- Keep accurate records of inmate conduct and any incidents that occur
- Participate in staff meetings and training sessions as required
Intermediate (2-5 years of experience)
Summary of the Role
As a Corrections Officer, you will be responsible for overseeing individuals who have been arrested and are awaiting trial or who have been sentenced to serve time in a jail, reformatory, or prison. The role is fundamental in maintaining security and inmate accountability to prevent disturbances, assaults, and escapes.
Required Skills
- Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
- Ability to manage high-stress situations and make sound decisions.
- Physical fitness and strength to respond to emergencies and subdue inmates if necessary.
- First-aid and CPR certification.
- Proficiency with security equipment and technology.
Qualifications
- A minimum of 2 years experience as a Corrections Officer or related position.
- Completion of required training academy or program.
- Knowledge of criminal justice system and correctional practices.
- Capability to act with authority and maintain discipline in stressful situations.
- Understanding of and ability to adhere to ethical, legal, and regulatory standards.
Responsibilities
- Monitor and manage inmate behavior and ensure compliance with the rules and regulations of the facility.
- Conduct regular headcounts to ensure each inmate is present.
- Inspect cells and other areas for contraband items.
- Supervise and escort inmates within the facility or to outside appointments.
- Prepare and maintain accurate records and reports on inmate activities and incidents.
- Respond to emergencies and assist in controlling disturbances within the facility.
- Develop and maintain professional rapport with inmates to foster a safe and cooperative environment.
- Participate in rehabilitation and counseling programs as a means to reduce inmate recidivism.
- Implement security measures to prevent escapes.
Senior (5+ years of experience)
Summary of the Role
As a Senior Corrections Officer, you will oversee the safety and security within correctional facilities. Your role is crucial for maintaining order, enforcing rules and regulations, and supervising the activities of inmates. Your years of experience will be essential in managing critical situations, providing mentorship to junior officers, and contributing to the development of institutional policies.
Required Skills
- Strong leadership and interpersonal skills.
- Crisis management and conflict resolution abilities.
- Excellent written and verbal communication.
- Knowledge of self-defense techniques and the use of restraint equipment.
- Ability to remain composed and make decisions under pressure.
- Proficiency in security systems and surveillance equipment.
- Understanding of inmate rehabilitation and counseling practices.
Qualifications
- Minimum of 5 years of experience as a Corrections Officer or in a similar law enforcement role.
- Proven track record in a supervisory or leadership position.
- Substantial knowledge of correctional facility operations and inmate management.
- Valid corrections officer certification or equivalent.
- Clean criminal record and ability to pass a stringent background check.
Responsibilities
- Supervise the security operations within the correctional facility.
- Enforce facility rules, regulations, and operational procedures.
- Monitor inmate behavior and intervene in altercations or emergencies.
- Conduct regular inspections of cells, facilities, and inmate possessions for contraband.
- Assist in the rehabilitation and counseling of inmates.
- Provide guidance and leadership to junior correctional staff.
- Develop and implement security procedures and contingency plans.
- Liaise with law enforcement and emergency response teams as necessary.
- Compile and maintain accurate records and reports.
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